Former Union President Becomes Fire Chief in Alberta

September 29, 2008 – For the first time ever, Fort McMurray, Alberta, has appointed a former union president fire chief. Bob Makey served as Fort McMurray Local 2494 president from 1995-2005.

“We are very encouraged to have one of our own in such a high position,” says Brad Grainger, president of Local 2494. “We are looking forward to working with Chief Makey to become compliant with NFPA 1710 and implement the IAFF/IAFC Wellness-Fitness Initiative.”

With his new position official, Makey will continue to work with Local 2494 on a new collective bargaining agreement and put the final touches on the fire department’s long-range plan, which includes five main points:

• aligning Regional Emergency Services with a corporate vision;
• reviewing and refining its service delivery model;
• enhancing recruitment and retention strategies;
• implementing a Regional Emergency Services leadership strategy; and
• implementing a new training strategy initiative.

Makey became a member of Local 2494 in 1987 and joined its executive board in 1991. He was elected president in 1995 and held the position until 2005 when he became deputy chief. Makey became acting regional fire chief in April when former Fire Chief Jeff Carlisle left. He was officially offered the position on August 28, 2008.